How do you know you have an aneurysm?

As a medical professional, I can tell you that knowing whether you have an aneurysm can be quite complex as many brain aneurysms do not cause any symptoms until they rupture. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that can suggest the presence of an aneurysm, especially if it's leaking or ruptured. Here's how you might become aware of a brain aneurysm: 1. Sudden, severe headache: Often described as the worst headache of one's life, this can be a sign of a ruptured aneurysm. 2. Pain behind the eyes: This can be a symptom if the aneurysm is leaking or causing pressure. 3. Neck pain: This might occur if the blood from a ruptured aneurysm irritates the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. 4. Nausea and vomiting: These can accompany a sudden, severe headache. 5. Sensitivity to light: Photophobia can be a symptom of a brain aneurysm that has ruptured. 6. Blurred or double vision: This may happen if the aneurysm is pressing on the optic nerve. 7. Loss of consciousness: A ruptured aneurysm can cause a person to faint. It's important to note that unruptured aneurysms often go undetected. They are sometimes found incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions. If you suspect an aneurysm, especially if you experience any of the symptoms listed above, you should seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional may use imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or cerebral angiography to diagnose an aneurysm.

A brain (cerebral) aneurysm is a bulging, weak area in the wall of an artery that supplies blood to the brain. In most cases, a brain aneurysm causes no symptoms and goes unnoticed. In rare cases, the brain aneurysm ruptures, releasing blood into the skull and causing a stroke.